EU initiates membership talks with 2 new countries while Türkiye’s wait continues

The European Union (EU) has officially approved the start of membership negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, countries seeking to align more closely with Western Europe and reduce Russian influence.

Türkiye, which has been negotiating for EU membership for many years, remains in a prolonged wait despite its early start.

The candidacy process for Türkiye began with an association agreement with the European Economic Community in 1963, gaining momentum in 1987 with a full membership application.

Full membership negotiations commenced in 2005 but have not advanced significantly, while other countries applying later have moved forward.

Goal to reduce Russian influence

The EU, aiming to bring Ukraine and Moldova closer and diminish Russian influence, announced the start of membership negotiations. Belgium, currently holding the EU presidency, said negotiations would begin in Luxembourg on June 25.

“The Council approved the EU’s common position, including the negotiation framework for EU accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova. Negotiations will begin in Luxembourg on Tuesday, June 25. Negotiations with Ukraine will start at 3:30 p.m. local time (4:30 p.m. TRT) and with Moldova at 6:00 p.m. local time (7:00 p.m. TRT),” the statement read.

Ukraine applied for EU membership shortly after Russia’s invasion on February 24, 2022. Last year, EU leaders agreed to initiate accession negotiations for Ukraine and Moldova.

Candidate countries must meet a series of economic and political criteria to become EU members.